Minor Studios

As winter closes in (along with the release of Project Stratosphir!) we huddle near our computers and find comfort in the joys of playing and designing levels, possibly while enjoying a cup of hot cocoa. Forumers across the world watch as snow gently drifts down from the clouds...

Many of you may not recognize veteran designer Achilles after his long period of inactivity, but now he’s officially back with his best work yet. ...

JazeGeek enters Halloween09 with great level by the name of Trinity Castle. You start within a small cavern, containing an entrance to Trinity Castle blocked by a double-locked door...

A quick 6-minute look at a level created entirely with the new Atmosphir engine. This new release features in-browser play, cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes, and a dynamic website that keeps track of all your experience and stats. blip.tv | youtube

Because of how the sun and moon orbit the Earth, the length of day and night changes as time goes on. In the winter, night falls earlier than it does in the summer. This balance between night and day has been a part of our lives as long as we can remember...

(Note from Dave: Please welcome the newest member of the editorial staff, robcozzens.) When you first set foot on the Oasis Isles, you will sense that you are in for a treat… and you will be right. ...

There may be tricks around every corner in this Halloween09 second place winner from Saunby, but oh how sweet it is to find the many (some obvious, and some not so obvious) treats. Saunby suggests that the old mansion is cold and dark and perhaps haunted?!...

Creator7’s Temple of Xar is a fun little dungeon that has a few cool ideas scattered throughout its chambers. ...

Saunby has certainly earned a place in the Atmosphir designer hall of fame with his latest creation. The Ruins of Cydonia takes you through a complex ruined city-like environment that is packed with puzzles...

Martin and Dave sit down to answer your Atmosphir questions in this special hour-long audio podcast. Oh yeah, and the new version of Atmosphir is coming out in early December. Platforms 11.1.09 Podcast (mp3, 58mb, 1:04)

The November dual Design & Play Challenge is Arcade09. Arcade games are known for certain traits - being fast, fun, and all about getting your initials in the high scores. This month’s challenge seeks to do the same. ...

I admit it - MarcoK is now one of my favorite designers. His beatiful scenery and precise puzzle-platforming are top-notch, and his clever re-use of previous environments always impresses me - and Castle of Legends [Halloween09] is possibly his best yet...

Frodo once again shows his designing prowess with Mining Moria. Continuing his style of Lord of the Rings themed levels, Mining Moria is an awesome level that, as the name suggests, has you running, jumping, and climbing through the mines of Moria...